LUVOX

The generic name of Luvox is Fluvoxamine Maleate.

Composition of Luvox

The molecular weight is 434.41 having a chemical formula- C15H21O2N2F3©C4H4O4. Fluvoxamine maleate is odorless, white/off white, crystalline, powdered compound which is freely soluble in alcohol, sparingly soluble in H2O and insoluble in diethyl ether. These drugs are available in 100 mg, 50 mg and 20 mg strengths for oral intake.

Luvox 100 mg tablets for treating depression

Uses of Luvox

It treats OCD by restoring the level of neurotransmitters in the brain. It helps to reduce the undesirable/persistent thoughts (obsessions) and urge to carry out tasks repeatedly (compulsions like counting, hand-washing, checking) which interfere daily life. The drug can also be used to treat depression, anxiety disorders and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)

How to use Luvox

Luvox is administered orally with/without food as prescribed by physician, generally once every day at bed time or daily twice. The amount of drug intake depends on the extremity of the disorder, age, response to drug and other medicine intake. The drug should be taken in low amount in the starting to reduce the side-effects.

Side-effects of Luvox

Vomiting, Nausea, loss of appetite, weakness, sleep issues, sweating and drowsiness are the common side-effects. Consult your doctor, if any of these very serious indications are as observed:

• Seizures
• Variations in vision
• Eye pain, redness and swelling
• Black stools
• Vomit with coffee grounds appearance
• Tachycardia
• Severe vomiting
• Twitching muscles
• Unusual restlessness
• Hallucinations
• Loss of coordination
• Chronic diarrhea
• Severe dizziness

The drug sometimes increases the serotonin level and causes a rare condition known as serotonin toxicity or syndrome. In very rare cases, males may have prolonged or painful erections for more than 4 hours or more. Serious allergies are rare; however rashes, swelling, itching (of throat, face and tongue), breathing problems and extreme dizziness are common.

Contraindications of Luvox

Any allergic reactions should be told to the doctor in the before the treatment. The pharmacist or doctor should know the medical history before you use the medicine, mainly of: family history of manic-depressive/bipolar disorder, suicidal attempts, seizures, liver disorders, low blood sodium level, intestinal bleeding/ulcers or personal history of glaucoma (type- angle closure). Older adults are likely to develop hyponatremia (salt imbalance) especially if they are taking diuretics (water pills). Loss of coordination increases the chances of falling down. In children, weight loss, and loss of appetite is observed.

Pregnancy and Luvox

During pregnancy this drug is not recommended unless prescribed by the doctor. It may cause harm to the unborn baby. Babies born to the mothers who have been consuming this medicine during the last trimester of their pregnancy may develop rare withdrawal symptoms like muscle stiffness, seizures, constant crying or feeding and breathing difficulties. The drug can enter into the breast milk. Therefore it is advisable to consult the physician before breast-feeding.

• About medication Luvox (PDF file)